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Which Countries Can Visit Australia Without a Visa? A 2026 Guide to Visa-Free Travel

  • Writer: Tere Marlena
    Tere Marlena
  • Jan 26
  • 3 min read
Visa to Visit Australia


Australia is a popular travel destination known for its beaches, nature, cities, and cultural diversity. For most international travelers, visiting Australia usually involves obtaining a visa before arrival. However, a selection of passport holders can travel with easier entry arrangements that reduce or eliminate the need for traditional visas.

Here’s a clear guide to who can enter Australia without a standard visa—using visa exemption programs, eVisitor permits, or Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETA).

1. Visa-Free Entry for New Zealand Citizens

The most straightforward case is citizens of New Zealand, who can enter Australia without needing a visa for short visits such as tourism or family visits. Under the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement, New Zealand passport holders are granted permission on arrival and can stay, work, or live in Australia under a Special Category Visa (SCV).

2. eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651) — Free Electronic Authorisation

Many passport holders from European countries and select others can travel to Australia using Australia’s eVisitor visa, which is a free, online travel authorisation used for short tourist and business visits (usually up to 3 months per visit).


Countries eligible for the eVisitor visa include most European Union (EU) nations such as:

  • Austria, Belgium, Denmark

  • Finland, France, Germany

  • Greece, Ireland, Italy

  • Netherlands, Norway, Portugal

  • Spain, Sweden, Switzerland

  • And several others from the European region.


The eVisitor visa is technically not a “visa-free” entry, but it functions similarly because it is simple to obtain online and does not require a full embassy application. The eVisitor grant is linked electronically to your passport, and no physical visa label is needed.


3. Electronic Travel Authority (ETA – Subclass 601)

Citizens of selected non-EU countries can apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA), which is another streamlined travel authorisation allowing stays of up to 3 months for tourism or business within a 12-month period.


Countries eligible for ETA include:

  • United States

  • Canada

  • Japan

  • Singapore

  • South Korea

  • Hong Kong Special Administrative Region


Unlike the eVisitor (which is free), the ETA may carry a small service charge (often applied when issued via certain digital channels).

4. Other Simplified Entry Arrangements

Although most travelers need either an eVisitor or ETA, some travellers benefit from special arrangements:

  • APEC Business Travel Card holders may enter Australia visa-free for up to 90 days under specific business criteria.

However, most other nationalities still need to apply for a standard Visitor visa (Subclass 600) before travel, particularly if they aren’t eligible for ETA or eVisitor categories.

What This Means for Travelers in 2026

While Australia does not generally offer fully visa-free travel for most nationalities, it provides multiple simplified routes that function similarly—especially for tourists and short-stay business visitors.

  • New Zealand citizens enjoy genuine visa-free access to Australia, often with broader rights on arrival.

  • European passport holders can use the free eVisitor system to enter for short stays.

  • Travelers from North America and certain Asian countries can use ETA authorisations without full visa applications.


For all travelers—visa-free or otherwise—requirements such as passport validity, return tickets, and proof of sufficient funds are commonly checked at the border.

Planning Your Trip to Australia

If you’re planning a journey Down Under in 2026, here are tips to simplify your preparations:

  • Check eligibility early: See whether you qualify for eVisitor or ETA before booking flights.

  • Apply in advance: Even quick authorisations can take time if demand is high.

  • Ensure passport validity: Many countries require passports to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.

  • Follow official sources: Official government sites (Department of Home Affairs) provide up-to-date entry requirements.


Visiting Australia is easier than many travelers think—especially if your passport qualifies for visa-free entry or a simple electronic authorisation. Always confirm requirements before you travel, as immigration policies can evolve from year to year.




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